Jason's Journal: Pothole Blues

Jason McKinsey, Lehman Volvo Cars Service Manager, writes about Volvo trending topics, including this month’s segment on the importance of having a wheel alignment performed on your Volvo during this time of year.

Looking for more information on a particular Volvo service topic? Submit your topic suggestion to Jason at jason@lehmanvolvocarsyork.com.

Pothole Blues

By Jason McKinsey, Service Manager

No driver looks forward to the abundance of potholes during this time of year. Sometimes it seems when one pothole is repaired, two more pop up in its place! As you can imagine, potholes take a toll on your Volvo. Wheel alignment is one of the most common things affected by potholes and other road hazards.

Wheel alignment is the adjustment of steering and suspension components that affect how the tires make contact with the surface of the road. There are several angles that can be adjusted to change the wheel alignment, including the most common: Caster, Camber and Toe. But, how do you know when your Volvo needs an alignment?

Some symptoms include:
  • a pull or drift to one side while driving
  • the steering wheel appears off center
  • a feeling of looseness or wandering
  • abnormal tire wear

Ignoring these symptoms can lead to several issues, including:
  • decreased fuel economy
  • an increased level of effort to steer the vehicle
  • a decrease in the number of miles your tires will last
  • abnormal tire wear causing noise levels from the tires to increase substantially

To check if an alignment is needed, your Volvo technician will first check for any wear or play in the suspension and steering components. The tire pressure will then be checked and set to Volvo specifications. After those two tasks are performed, the alignment angles are checked using sophisticated equipment. Adjustments are made to the rear alignment angles as needed, the steering wheel is centered, and adjustments are made to the front alignment angles. After all of this, your Volvo is then road tested to ensure a successful alignment has been completed.

It is recommended to have your alignment checked as least once a year, or when you experience any of the above mentioned issues. Doing so ensures the highest level of longevity from your tires. According to Hunter Engineering, a leading manufacturer of alignment equipment, “driving a vehicle for 12,000 miles with a toe angle misalignment of only 0.34 degrees (0.17 inches) out of specification would be equivalent to dragging the tries sideways for 68 miles.”

Proper wheel alignment is vital to maintaining the safety and driving characteristics of your Volvo. To help get your Volvo rolling down the road straight again, Lehman Volvo Cars of York is offering a $10.00 discount on a four wheel alignment through the end of April, when you mention this article. Please contact your Volvo Service Advisor at 717-755-7676 to set up your appointment or schedule online at LehmanVolvoCarsYork.com.

Contact me if you have any questions at jason@lehmanvovlocarsyork.com or 717-755-7676.

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